I was popular with a couple of the more intelligent teachers
I don't think I was 'popular' with any teachers. Some of them had a grudging respect for--perhaps were even amused by--my independent streak. For one thing, I objected to homework on principal. In my view, when the school day was over, it was over. They took up enough of my time. I would give token attention to after school work, but only minimally. It's hard for a teacher not to take that posture personally. The more confident ones let it slide. They figured, if I could keep up without doing homework, fine. That's exactly how I felt.
Don't waste my time. :))
So, when you took up teaching, did you set homework?
As I said, I never planned to teach. I 'accidentally' ended up in a school. Had applied to be a part-time secretary and was persuaded to go into the classroom as an aid. Was certified after a couple of years and then taught. It wasn't a usual school. Everyone had a therapist, was under psychiatric care. Low stress environment. No homework. In my class, no surprise tests. I gave them all the questions at the beginning of the week. We worked on the answers all week, by Friday everyone got a 100, or close to it. Those who had trouble remembering got extra study sessions (free!) with me. All my kids passed their state exams, even the long shots.
It was hard. In four years I was so sick I had to quit :))
You sound like the teacher from heaven. No wonder you only lasted 4 years.
I did intend to become a teacher and even enrolled for the HDip. Then I realised I loathed children:)